Strategy 1: Build Your “Shortlist Portfolio”

Don’t just tell them what you can do; show them.

• Pick 3 dream roles you want to target in Q1.
• Select one tangible example for each (project, result, or framework) that demonstrates your specific approach.
• Create a 3–5 page PDF including a brief “First 60 Days” section.
• Save it as a sharable file for networking and applications.

Strategy 2: Run a “Holiday Insight Audit”

Offer value instead of asking for favors.

• Choose 5 target companies you genuinely admire.
• Research their last 12 months (Press releases, interviews, hiring patterns, customer reviews).
• Identify one major industry shift impacting their 2025 priorities.
• Send a value-based message to an insider.

Strategy 3: Host a “Micro-Roundtable”

Become the connector, not the applicant.

• Pick a topic such as “2025 Trends” or “Winter Professional Growth.”
• Invite 6 people (aiming for 2–3 attendees).
• Host a 30-minute virtual coffee chat.
• Post a summary on LinkedIn afterwards and tag participants.

Strategy 4: The “Holiday Warm-Up” Sequence

Warm up the room before you walk in.

• Draft 3–4 LinkedIn posts for December.
• Post Idea 1: A lesson learned this year.
• Post Idea 2: A specific challenge you solved.
• Post Idea 3: A mindset or leadership principle you value.
• Engage with comments on relevant industry posts daily.

Strategy 5: The “January Jumpstart” List

People hire people. Secure your January conversations now.

• List 5 strong ties.
• List 10 loose ties.
• List 10 new ties.
• Send a low-pressure note to each requesting a January check-in.

The goal isn’t to be busy; it’s to be positioned. While others are disconnected, you are building the runway for a strong Q1 launch.